Suncoast nonprofits face potential cut in county funding if Amendment 3 passes
Leaders warn that tax relief for homeowners may shrink budgets for mental health services, leaving organizations like NAMI near capacity limits.
By Neha Delgado ·
Homeowners in Sarasota and Manatee counties could receive property tax relief under Amendment 3, but local mental health organizations warn the measure may reduce the funds available for critical community services. The amendment is on the ballot for the November 3 election, with polls opening in less than 13 hours. Nonprofit leaders say the proposed budget changes could shrink the resources they use to support families facing mental health crises.
NAMI Central Suncoast relies on funding from Sarasota and Manatee counties to operate its free peer support groups, education classes, and outreach programs. Colleen O’Neil Thayer, CEO of NAMI Central Suncoast, stated that the amendment could affect the level of service the organization provides. She clarified that the group does not expect to close its doors but anticipates a reduction in the number of support groups and educational sessions it can offer to the community.
The potential impact extends to individual families already navigating complex care systems. Jennifer Propsem first contacted NAMI in 2020 when her daughter faced severe mental health challenges. Propsem described her initial experience as hitting a series of dead ends, where referrals failed due to insurance issues, age limits, or gender restrictions. NAMI connected her with a parent peer who had similar experiences, helping her manage the crisis. Propsem now works on staff at NAMI, assisting other families through similar situations.
Propsem noted that the demand for mental health support is increasing while NAMI operates near capacity. She warned that any cut to services, particularly those focused on families and youth, would be highly detrimental. United Way Suncoast also expressed concern that nonprofits will have to bridge larger gaps in care as government budgets shrink. Kourtney Sanchez, CEO of United Way Suncoast, said philanthropy alone cannot replace the lost public funding.
Both NAMI Central Suncoast and United Way Suncoast stated they are preparing for potential budget changes while acknowledging remaining unknowns. Neither organization has taken an official position on Amendment 3. Instead, they are working to inform the public about how the measure might affect local service availability. The organizations aim to educate residents so they understand the relationship between tax relief and public health funding as they cast their votes.
Source: WWSB
